Miami Hurricanes Football: Five Reasons for Optimism in 2015

Nov 15, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jameis Winston (5) lies on the ground after being hit by Miami Hurricanes defensive end Chad Thomas (9) in the first half at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports

Defensive Line

If you noticed, during the first half of the Florida State game, Miami played aggressive man-to-man coverage and formulated various blitzes. If Al Golden and Mark D’Onofrio called every game as such, Miami would be a top defense. There is no doubt the talent is there.

Perhaps this is one of the so called “changes”.

Miami brought in Calvin Heurtelou, Courtel Jenkins, and Michael Wyche to play the Nose Tackle position. Heurtelou and Jenkins saw a considerable amount of time last season, and proved to be decent players for the position. At Defensive End, Miami has a lot of bodies. On the current roster, they have Jelani Hamilton, Anthony Moten, Ufomba Kamalu, Kendrick Norton, RJ McIntosh and Chad Thomas. Although they’re losing Olsen Pierre at Defensive Tackle, Miami is returning talented players with a lot of experience. Expect Chad Thomas, the former 5 star recruit, to take over Anthony Chickillo’s role at Strong Side Defensive End.

The pass rushers should be adequate this season. Miami finished 68th in total sacks last season and 102nd in TFL’s. Yet, the depth Miami should promote optimism. Their list of pass rushers include: Chad Thomas, Demetrius Jackson, Darrion Owens, Tyriq McCord, Al-Quadin Muhammad, and Trent Harris. There is no doubt Miami missed Muhammad presence for depth purposes last season. His return has moved Tyriq McCord to OLB/Pass rusher. If you want a comparison, think of Bruce Irvin for the Seattle Seahawks. This is an ideal position for him if he is used properly.

Now the Linebacker position is a different story. Miami will rely on Raphael Kirby, Jermaine Grace, and Juwon Young, Marques Gayot, Terry McCray, Mike Smith, and Charles Perry to fill the void of the absence of 2nd rounder Denzel Perryman. Grace proved to be Miami fastest player in 40 times completed during the off season. That’s never a bad thing. He also played exceptionally well last season. Raphael Kirby has to step up this season if Miami wants to succeed. The depth and talent on the defensive line will open up the holes him for him to fill.

Next: Defensive Backs